Dubai’s GITEX expands to Brazil, unlocking US$950 billion Latin American market
GITEX LATAM to debut in São Paulo in March 2027
DUBAI – Latin America’s digital economy is accelerating at a remarkable pace, projected to reach nearly US$950 billion by 2026, according to the Policy Center for the New South (PCMI).
As this next wave of socio-economic transformation unfolds, GITEX – the world’s largest technology and digital investment show – is stepping into the region for the first time. Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and KAOUN International in partnership with the São Paulo Development Agency (ADESAMPA), GITEX LATAM will make its debut at Distrito Anhembi in São Paulo, Brazil, from 16–17 March 2027.
The new event aims to redefine Latin America’s digital frontier by connecting the region’s thriving startup scene, innovation-driven policies, and expanding technology frameworks with the global innovation community. It is positioned as the next major chapter in GITEX’s global journey – uniting international tech leaders, investors, and entrepreneurs under one transformative platform.
Ricardo Nunes, Mayor of São Paulo, described the event as a historic opportunity for the region’s entrepreneurs: “São Paulo is excited to host GITEX LATAM, a landmark catalyst enabling our finest innovators to meet global opportunities,” he said. “This platform will connect pioneering startups, unicorns, and influential enterprises with international markets, unlocking capital, forging partnerships, and expanding visibility on the world stage.”
What makes Brazil the ideal host?
Brazil’s selection underscores its growing reputation as Latin America’s technology powerhouse. The country is one of the world’s most advanced adopters of digital public infrastructure, offering digital IDs and access to hundreds of online services for more than 150 million citizens. With ambitions to achieve a US$259 billion ICT market (IMARC Group) and a US$99.8 billion AI market (Grand View Horizon) by 2033, Brazil represents the vibrant cornerstone of Latin America’s digital revolution.
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC and CEO of KAOUN International, called Brazil “a benchmark for dynamic, inclusive, and consequential technology development.” She said that São Paulo’s status as a hub of “startup ingenuity, entrepreneurial spirit, and ambitious investment” makes it the natural venue for Latin America’s first GITEX edition.
In the past three years, GITEX has expanded rapidly, creating a global network of events spanning 14 cities and countries, each driving regional innovation and new business access. With Brazil joining the network in 2027, GITEX LATAM is set to propel Latin America into a new era of digital collaboration and global visibility.
How will it transform the region?
According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Latin America’s emerging and developing economies collectively generate a GDP of US$6.8 trillion in 2025, positioning the region as one of the world’s most dynamic growth markets. GITEX LATAM seeks to harness this momentum by serving as a bridge for international collaboration, linking capital, technology, and innovation between Latin America and global markets.
The event’s agenda will span key sectors driving global transformation – from AI, agritech, and cloud computing to cybersecurity, data centres, healthtech, and renewable energy. Designed to encourage public-private partnerships, GITEX LATAM will promote competitiveness, attract investment, and boost infrastructure development across Latin America’s rapidly digitising economies.
The platform’s goal is not just to exhibit innovation but to facilitate collaboration – ensuring that local enterprises and startups gain access to global knowledge and networks that can scale their impact beyond borders.
Where does São Paulo stand in global innovation?
São Paulo continues to strengthen its position as Latin America’s innovation capital. As per StartupBlink’s Global Startup Ecosystem Index Report 2025, the city ranks first regionally, attracting over US$33.5 billion in venture capital over the past decade. The entrepreneurial ecosystem is valued at US$113 billion, hosting 11 unicorns that have each surpassed the US$1 billion mark, according to Real Instituto Elcano.
Rodrigo Goulart, Municipal Secretary of Economic Development and Labour of São Paulo, said the event is expected to boost investor confidence and inspire entrepreneurs:
“By leveraging GITEX’s vast global network of digital economy relationships, we are inspired to cultivate investor confidence and empower new talent across Brazil and Latin America.”
GITEX LATAM will gather policymakers, global tech companies, venture capitalists, SMEs, and startups in São Paulo – fostering cross-border innovation and investment. Its timing aligns with the city’s growing reputation as a fertile ground for digital transformation, where government initiatives and private enterprise intersect to drive growth.
The news also coincides with Brazil’s role as the official Country Partner at the 45th edition of GITEX GLOBAL, represented by ApexBrasil, the national trade and investment promotion agency. More than 50 startups and innovation hubs from Brazil are participating across two national pavilions.
Additionally, São Paulo’s City Hall is showcasing over 10 startups, while Chile and Ecuador make their first-ever appearances at GITEX GLOBAL, joining representatives from over 180 countries.
The announcement comes shortly after the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro in November 2024, which marked 50 years of diplomatic relations between the UAE and Brazil. Both nations reaffirmed their strategic partnership and expressed intent to collaborate further in areas including AI, agriculture, climate change, renewable energy, and emerging technologies.